Psychology A-Level
directional and non-directional hypotheses
What directional and non-directional hypotheses means in Psychology A-Level, as defined for OCR.
Definition of directional and non-directional hypotheses
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain directional and non-directional hypotheses in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: OCR
A one-tailed (directional) hypothesis uses comparative words like more, fewer, or faster, while a two-tailed (non-directional) hypothesis states there will be a difference but refuses to specify the direction.
Topics that use directional and non-directional hypotheses
- Planning and conducting research (OCR A-Level)
Related terms
- behavioural category
- confounding variables
- Counterbalancing
- ethical planning
- event sampling
- experimental control
- operationalisation
- order effects
Using directional and non-directional hypotheses in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
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